Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas (Mediterranean Diet Friendly) Recipe
This vibrant Turmeric Rice with Chickpeas recipe is a wholesome, Mediterranean diet-friendly dish featuring fragrant basmati rice, nutrient-packed spinach, and protein-rich chickpeas simmered with aromatic turmeric, garlic, and oregano. Finished with fresh lemon juice and creamy Greek yogurt, it’s a satisfying, colorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 leek (chopped, or substitute with a large onion)
- 3 cloves garlic (grated)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 5 cups spinach (chopped)
Rice and Legumes
- ½ cup basmati rice (or jasmine rice, uncooked)
- 2 cans chickpeas (15 oz / 400 g each can, drained and rinsed) or 3 cups cooked chickpeas (460 g)
Liquids and Seasoning
- 3 cups vegetable broth (add more if you prefer a brothier dish)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 1 lemon (juice only)
To Serve
- 4 dollops Greek yogurt (or Skyr)
Instructions
- Sauté the Leek: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced leek and cook for about 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Remember to rinse the leek thoroughly to remove any grit before slicing.
- Add Flavor and Greens: Stir in the grated garlic, turmeric, and dried oregano. Then add the chopped spinach. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the mixture is fragrant.
- Add Rice and Chickpeas: Add the basmati rice and drained chickpeas to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the spices. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. No need to rinse rice before cooking.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve warm, drizzled with fresh lemon juice and topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt or Skyr. For extra protein, optionally add a poached egg on top.
Notes
- Leeks can contain grit; rinse thoroughly between layers before cooking.
- You may substitute the leek with a large onion if preferred.
- Use basmati or jasmine rice for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust vegetable broth quantity for preferred consistency.
- Add a poached egg for extra protein and richness.
- Greek yogurt can be replaced with Skyr or a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option.
Keywords: turmeric rice, chickpeas, Mediterranean diet, vegetarian, healthy, one-pan meal, basmati rice, spinach, Greek yogurt, easy dinner
